Crinum thaianum

Crinum thaianum is endemic to southern Thailand where it grows in fast-flowing mountain streams, producing extremely long, strap-like leaves from a large, onion-shaped bulb. In the aquarium its tough, leathery leaves resist damage from herbivorous fish and its extreme hardiness makes it suitable for very low-tech setups. Its leaves can reach 150 cm in large tanks, creating a bold vertical backdrop that works equally well in biotope tanks and decorative community aquariums.

Light: Low to medium (15–50 PAR); one of the most light-tolerant large aquarium plants and ideal for dimly lit tanks. CO2: Not required; performs well in completely low-tech setups. Planting: Plant the bulb with the upper half or two-thirds above the substrate; never fully bury. Maintenance: Remove yellowed or damaged leaves at the base; liquid fertiliser supplementation accelerates new leaf production. Note: Cichlids, goldfish, and other herbivores tend to leave this plant alone due to its tough leaf texture.